Fatigue
Fatigue describes general feelings of exhaustion, tiredness, and a loss of energy. It’s different from feeling sleepy or drowsy. There’s also no motivation when fatigued, so while sleepiness might be a symptom, they aren’t the same. Moreover, it’s usually common in medical conditions of varying severity. It can also be a natural outcome of some lifestyle choices, such as poor diet or inactivity.
If the fatigue fails to resolve itself with proper nutrition and rest, there’s a possibility that it may be caused by underlying mental or physical health conditions. Thus, it’s best to see a doctor immediately so a diagnosis can be made and treatment options administered. Some conditions that may cause fatigue are the flu, anemia, arthritis, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, Addison’s disease, insomnia, and anorexia, to name a few.
The fatigue’s nature and causes typically determine its treatment plan. To diagnose the condition, a medical provider might ask questions, such as when it started, what the triggers are, symptoms you experience, any pre-existing medical conditions, stressors and lifestyle, and medications you’re currently taking. If the doctor suspects an underlying health condition, they may order some tests, such as urine and blood tests.
